Cruise vs Resort Weddings: Which One Fits Your Dream Day?

Photo courtesy: Xavier Bau Weddings

Planning a destination wedding? One of the first big choices you'll make is where to say “I do.”
For many couples, it comes down to two unforgettable options: a luxe all-inclusive resort or a dreamy cruise wedding. Both offer romance, ease, and adventure—but the experience for you and your guests can be totally different.
In this post, I’ll walk you through the pros and cons of each style—from budget and planning to guest experience and flexibility—so you can confidently choose the perfect setting for your big day.
Whether you're leaning toward ocean views from a private balcony or toes-in-the-sand vows at a tropical resort, you’ll leave with clarity on which destination wedding fits your love story best.

Photo credit: Eko Agalarov

All-Inclusive Destination Weddings: Where Stress-Free Meets Stunning 

When most couples dream of a destination wedding, an all-inclusive resort is often the first image that comes to mind—and for good reason. Picture arriving at a breathtaking beachfront property where everything is handled for you: the ceremony setup, gourmet meals, refreshing drinks, fun activities, and even your accommodations.
These resort weddings bundle all the essentials into one seamless package, making it easier to plan and budget while giving you and your guests a truly unforgettable experience.
 

Why Couples Adore All-Inclusive Weddings
One of the biggest reasons couples choose all-inclusive resort weddings is the ease. Once your guests book their stay, everything they need—from meals and drinks to entertainment—is right on-site. No need to coordinate transportation, hunt down restaurants, or juggle multiple invoices—the resort takes care of it all.


Personalization is another major plus
Most resorts offer a variety of ceremony locations—think beachfront vows, lush garden settings, rooftop views, or even overwater piers. You’ll also have options for décor, menus, and entertainment, all guided by a dedicated wedding coordinator who helps bring your vision to life—whether that’s a barefoot sunset ceremony or a chic ballroom celebration.


And let’s not forget the group perks!
When you book a block of rooms, many resorts offer special bonuses like complimentary upgrades, free nights for the couple, or even hosted events like a welcome cocktail hour or farewell brunch.

Things to Keep in Mind
While all-inclusive resorts offer convenience and control, the experience can vary depending on the size of the property. Larger resorts may host multiple weddings in a day, which can feel less private. Smaller resorts tend to be more intimate but may offer fewer venue options.
Also, your guest list will likely be limited to those who can travel and afford the stay. For many couples, this isn’t a dealbreaker—guests often treat it as a vacation—but it’s something to consider if you have loved ones with limited availability, young children, or mobility concerns.

Photo courtesy: Xavier Bau Weddings

Learn More:  10 Essential Tips for choosing your perfect Resort for Your Destination Wedding
 
 
Cruise Weddings: Romance, Adventure & Built-In Honeymoon

If you're dreaming of a wedding that blends travel, celebration, and effortless luxury, a cruise wedding might be your perfect match. Think of it as a floating resort where your ceremony, reception, and honeymoon all unfold seamlessly—whether onboard or at a breathtaking port of call.
 
Three Ways to Say “I Do” on a Cruise

1. Onboard While in Port (Before Departure)
Some couples choose to tie the knot on the ship before it sets sail. This option allows guests who aren’t cruising to attend the ceremony and reception, making it more inclusive for local friends and family. The trade-off? The timeline can be tight, with events happening before departure—and the boarding buzz may add a bit of hustle to your big day.
 
2. At Sea
For a truly romantic experience, many cruise lines offer ceremonies at sea, officiated by the captain or a licensed celebrant. Picture exchanging vows in a private lounge with panoramic ocean views—it’s unforgettable. Just keep in mind that legal requirements vary. Some cruise weddings require a marriage license from a specific country (like the Bahamas), which can mean extra paperwork. To simplify, many couples opt for a symbolic ceremony onboard and handle the legal side back home.
 
3. Port-of-Call WeddingsAnother beautiful option is to say “I do” at one of the cruise’s port stops—whether it’s a sun-kissed Caribbean beach, a charming European city, or a scenic Alaskan harbor. This gives you the best of both worlds: the romance of a destination wedding and the excitement of a cruise vacation.
Just keep in mind that cruise itineraries aren’t set in stone. Weather or operational changes can sometimes lead to shortened port visits or skipped stops, which could impact your wedding plans. It’s a stunning choice, but one that works best with a flexible mindset and a solid backup plan.

Photo credit: G. Isle Px

Why Couples Fall in Love with Cruise WeddingsCruise weddings are perfect for couples who crave variety, adventure, and a touch of novelty. Imagine waking up in a new destination each day, enjoying onboard entertainment, and celebrating your love with family and friends—all while sailing to stunning ports.
Most cruise lines offer wedding packages that include everything from the ceremony venue and officiant to flowers, music, cake, and photography. It’s a streamlined way to plan a beautiful celebration without juggling multiple vendors.
Cruises can also be surprisingly budget-friendly, especially for smaller guest lists. Since your travel, accommodations, and honeymoon are bundled into one trip, it’s a smart and efficient way to celebrate without overspending.
 

Group Perks That Sweeten the Deal
If you have a group sailing with you—often just eight staterooms or more—you may qualify for exclusive perks like:
 
·      Onboard credit for you and your guests
·      Complimentary cocktail receptions or private event spaces
·      Reduced deposits or special group rates
·      Priority boarding for your wedding party
·      Complimentary upgrades or romantic amenities for the couple
 
These extras are in addition to your wedding package, making cruise weddings especially appealing for couples with a travel-loving crowd.
 

Things to Consider
Cruise weddings do come with a few logistical challenges. Legal requirements for marrying at sea or in foreign ports can be complex, and coordinating multiple locations and schedules takes careful planning.
 
Reception options may be more limited unless you reserve private dining or event spaces onboard. And if you’re dreaming of specific photo backdrops or golden-hour lighting, you’ll need to work around the cruise itinerary and possible weather shifts.
 

Photo credit: Edgar Arroyo

Cost Snapshot: What to Expect
While pricing can vary depending on location, season, and customization, here’s a general breakdown to help you compare:
 
All-Inclusive Resort Weddings
Popular Caribbean resorts typically start around $5,000–$8,000 for 20–30 guests. This often includes your ceremony, reception, and added perks from group bookings—like room upgrades or complimentary events.
 
Cruise Weddings
Cruise celebrations for similar guest counts usually range from $3,000–$6,000, though extras like private receptions or upgraded amenities can increase the total. If you're planning something more intimate, symbolic ceremony packages can start under $1,000, making cruises a budget-friendly option for smaller celebrations.
 
How They Compare: All-Inclusive vs. Cruise Weddings 

Choosing the right destination wedding style really comes down to how you envision your special day. If you’re dreaming of everyone gathered in one beautiful place, sharing memories over several days, a resort might be your perfect fit. If you’re craving variety, adventure, and waking up in a new destination each morning, a cruise wedding could be just the thing.
When you're ready, I’d love to help you explore your options. I’ll offer the same honest guidance I give my closest friends—and even share what I’d choose myself!
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I still have a few openings this month, so feel free to book your complimentary 30-minute destination wedding strategy session with me today.

Yes I am ready to get help!